Sompal Kami (Thapa), a native to Gulmi rose to fame in just days of his arrival in Kathmandu to play Senior T20 Selection Tournament with his genuinly fast bowling. Having trained at Cricket Academy in India he immediately impressed and was selected for region number three. A fast bowler, who prefers being called batting all rounder as he troubled veterans from APF in the semi final of National T20 Tournament and was part of Nepal’s preparation camp for ICC T20 Qualifier. Cricnepal representative Subash Gautam talked with him today during a match of National U19 Tournament.
Your Inspiration:
Definitely my uncle; Bhuwan Sunwar. He has had a huge impact in my game and motivates me in every step.
You are here in Nepal for 2 months, how have you been doing?
I am staying with Arjun Adhikari (Sompal team mate, he and Arjun, who is a fantastic wicket keeper came to Nepal together ) and have received tremendous help from “Annaa” (Bhola Neupane, secretary of NCFC) and a lot of support from NCFC. So it’s been quite good.
Sporting Idol
Its has to be Paras Khadka and Sachin Tendulkar
You bowl fast, ever measured how fast?
I haven’t measured my bowling in Nepal. Once in a trail at mohali(India) after I bowled three balls I was told that the speedgun clicked 134.5 kmp. That was a while back though
Your most memorable moment in Nepal?
The century against Nuwakot, that will remain with me for a long-long time.
You played Cricket in India, how far did you go?
Actually I did quite well in India. Even represented punjab in a state level T20 match.
If you don’t get selected in the team, you have plans of returning to India?
I have always wanted to represent Nepal. It would be stupid to leave just because I did not get selected once. If I don’t get selected I will put in more effort the next time. If not now then there is always a next time
How do you see Nepal’s chances in T20 World Cup Qualifier?
I was lucky to get a chance to play with the players from National team a month back. They are very good. Parash Khadka in particular, he is so brilliant. I think with six spots, Nepal should qualify.
Final Words
I am quite satisfied playing Cricket here in this wonderful environment. I am going to work hard and hopefully represent Nepal in near future. I would also like to thank everyone here. I have received a lot of support and encouragement.
Sompal is currently playing U19 National Tournament representing Kathmandu and took 5 wickets today against Birgunj in their group Match. Initially known for his bowling he came to lime light with back to back centuries in U19 Regional Selection against Nuwakot first and then Lalitpur. He will be one of the prime contenders for Nepal U19 Team that will tour UAE for U19 Asia Cup.
